Meloxicam is a medication used to reduce the pain and inflammation of arthritis. According to Drugs.com, meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces the hormones that cause pain. Typically, you will take 7.5 mg of meloxicam daily. The maximum dosage is 15 mg daily.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, meloxicam's common side effects include diarrhea, a runny nose (rhinorrhea), gas (flatulence) and a sore throat. Diarrhea causes bodily fluid loss. This can result in dehydration and low potassium levels. You may exhibit decreased urination and dry skin and lips if you are dehydrated. You may present with constipation, fatigue and muscular cramping if you have low blood potassium levels. Simply drinking eight to 10 glasses of water can resolve your dehydration symptoms. Eating a diet rich in potassium such as bananas, apricots and raisins can increase your potassium levels.
Serious Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine indicates that meloxicam can increase your risk for stomach or intestinal bleeding. In fact, chronic meloxicam use can irritate the linings of these organs and cause severe stomach pain, rectal bleeding, black stools (melena) and bloody stools. This medication can also increase your risk of blood clots (thromboembolism). Blood clots that obstruct the major arteries of your heart can lead to a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Signs of a heart attack include chest pain that radiates down your arm, sweating, trouble breathing and nausea. A blood clot that blocks the blood vessels in your brain results in a stroke. Stroke manifestations include numbness or tingling, especially on one side of your body, a sudden headache and trouble speaking. Drugs.com says that meloxicam can also cause a fever, sore throat and skin rash. Go to the hospital immediately if meloxicam causes any of these side effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid meloxicam if you are allergic to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. You may develop hives, trouble breathing and throat swelling. Drugs.com says you must inform your doctor if you have heart problems, high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, asthma or stomach or intestinal problems. Meloxicam can exacerbate any of these conditions. This medication is excreted in breast milk, so tell your doctor if you plan to breastfeed. Be cautious when taking meloxicam with lithium, cyclosporine, methotrexate, steroids or ramipril, as the interactions can lead to the previously mentioned side effects.
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